Soldiers to raise money for paralyzed veterans

Next month, a group of local soldiers will take thousands of steps in honor of those who can't.

On Saturday, May 21, the group from the U.S. Army recruiting office in Petoskey will walk the 22-mile journey from Indian River to Petoskey to raise money and awareness for the Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America. In addition to walking 22 miles, the soldiers will also carry 35-pound backpacks, which mimics training often done on posts.

The money raised through the march will help the Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America enhance the lives of veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases. The organization offers not only equipment and counseling for paralyzed veterans, but also education.

"We wanted to do this because we can walk and they can't, and it helps draw attention to the challenges our paralyzed veterans often face when they return home," said event organizer, Terra Tansey. "We want to raise money for them for housing, medical costs and just their overall needs."

This is the second year of the event.

The march will begin at 6 a.m. at the VFW post in Indian River and will end at the pavilion at the Petoskey waterfront.

At 2 p.m., there will be hotdogs, chips and pop and community members are encouraged to attend and watch the soldiers finish their march.

"We just really hope the event brings some awareness to the community," Tansey said. "Our veterans are often overlooked and we want to change that."

Those interested in marching the full or portion of the distance with the soldiers can contact Terra Tansey at (440) 476-1994.

Donations can be made at the pavilion during the event, or by mailing them to: Paralyzed Veterans of America, 616 Petoskey St., Suite 107, Petoskey, Mich. 49770.